Kaam Khatam

BUDDHIST LITERATURE
Buddhist literature originated with the teachings

of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, who delivered
sermons orally to his disciples.
The language of Buddhist literature initially was
written in Pali and Sanskrit, with early canonical texts
like the Tripitaka written in Pali. Buddhist literature
encompasses a diverse range of texts that convey
Buddhism’s teachings, stories, and practices.
Buddhism and literature, encompassing scriptures,
commentaries, and poetic works, have profoundly
influenced languages, arts, and philosophies,
contributing to rich literary traditions in India, Tibet,
China, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
In The Buddhist there are the “Tripitakas”, that is,
three baskets - Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka and
Abhidhamma Pitaka. The Jataka stories are a
significant part of Buddhist literature.
SUTTA PITAKA:
The Sutta Pitaka is a central section of the Pali Canon,
the scripture of Theravada Buddhism, comprising a vast
collection of discourses attributed to the Buddha and his
close disciples. It is divided into five main collections
known as Nikayas: the Digha Nikaya, which contains
long discourses on complex topics; the Majjhima Nikaya,
featuring middle-length teachings covering various
aspects of practice and ethics; the Samyutta Nikaya,
which groups teachings thematically around subjects
like mindfulness; the Anguttara Nikaya, arranging
teachings in numerical lists for moral guidance; and the
Khuddaka Nikaya, a diverse collection of shorter texts,
poems, and stories. Together, the Sutta Pitaka serves as
a vital resource for understanding the Buddha's
teachings, offering insights and guidance on ethical
living, meditation, and the path to enlightenment.
VINAYA PITAKA:
The Vinaya Pitaka is one of the three main sections of the
Pali Canon, serving as the foundational text for monastic
discipline in Theravada Buddhism. It outlines the rules and
regulations governing the conduct of monks and nuns,
ensuring a harmonious and disciplined community. The
Vinaya Pitaka is divided into several sections, including the
**Sutta Vibhanga**, which details the individual rules
(Patimokkha) and their origins; the **Khandhaka**, which
covers broader guidelines for monastic life, including
procedures for ordination and communal activities; and the
**Parivara**, a summary and analysis of the rules. These
teachings emphasize ethical conduct, communal harmony,
and the importance of adhering to the monastic code. By
establishing a framework for monastic discipline, the Vinaya
Pitaka plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and
continuity of the Buddhist monastic community, guiding
practitioners in their spiritual development and interactions
with lay followers.
section of the Pali canon, or Tripitaka, a body of scriptures
attributed to the historical Buddha.
In Pali, abhi means “higher” or “further,” while dhamma refers
to the teachings, principles, and truths. The term
“Abhidhamma” can then be translated to “Higher Dhamma” or
“Further Truths.” The Abhidhamma is primarily studied and
practiced by monastics, scholars, and serious practitioners
seeking a detailed understanding of Buddhist teachings and
the Buddhist view of mind. Within Theravada monastic
communities, the study of Abhidhamma can play a key role in
the training of monks and nuns, providing them with a
comprehensive understanding of the dharma that can be
useful for resolving doctrinal questions and clarifying points of
practice.
JATAKAS TALES
The Jataka tales or simply the Jataka a genre of Buddhist literature. The
genre contains a vast collection of Buddha stories that detail the previous
lives of the Buddha, also known as Gautama Buddha (c. 563–483 BCE), the
founding figure of Buddhism.
The word Jataka refers to birth in Sanskrit and the Buddhist literary
language of Pali. In Pali, it refers primarily to the birth stories of the Buddha
and not births in other contexts. These stories do not always tell the story
of the past life of the Buddha from birth to death, as they may focus on a
specific episode of the past life to illustrate a particular Buddhist ideal, such
as honesty, generosity, or kindness.
JAIN LITERATURE:
Jain literature is a rich and
diverse body of texts that
reflects the teachings and
philosophy of Jainism, one of
India’s oldest religions. It
includes the Agamas, the
foundational scriptures
attributed to Mahavira,
alongside commentaries that
elucidate these teachings.
Historical narratives, such as the
"Trishashti Shalaka Purusha
Charitra," recount the lives of
Tirthankaras and significant
figures. Poetic works and
philosophical texts explore
themes of non-violence (ahimsa)
and the nature of the soul (jiva).
Together, these writings
preserve and transmit Jain
CORE THEMES:
• Ahimsa (Non-violence) -The principle
of non-violence, emphasizing
compassion and respect for all living
beings, in thought, word, and action.
• Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness) -
Encourages detachment from material
possessions and desires, promoting
simplicity and inner peace.
• Satya (Truth) - Stresses the importance
of truthfulness and honesty, while
considering the impact of one’s words on
others.
• Asteya (Non-stealing) - Prohibits
taking anything that does not belong to
you, fostering respect for others’
property and integrity.
• Brahmacharya (Celibacy or Chastity)
- Advocates for celibacy or sexual
restraint to achieve spiritual purity and
focus on spiritual growth.
1. Agamas: Canonical scriptures containing teachings of Lord Mahavira.
MAJOR TEXTS 2. Tattvartha Sutra: A key philosophical text by Umaswati outlining Jain
IN JAINISM: doctrines.
3. Samayasara: Written by Acharya Kundakunda, it focuses on self-realization.
4. Niyamasara: Discusses ethical principles guiding Jain conduct.
5. Pratikraman: A ritual text for repentance, especially during Paryushana.
1. Mahavira: The 24th Tirthankara of Jainism,
Mahavira is considered the founder of the
modern Jain community. His teachings form the
basis of Jain philosophy and ethics.
Voices of 2. Ravi Kumar Jain: A contemporary author who
Jainism:
has written numerous books on Jain philosophy
and practices, making the teachings accessible
to modern readers.
Key 3. Samantabhadra: An important philosopher
Authors in
and poet in Jainism, known for his works on
ethics and philosophy, particularly
"Niyamasara.
Jain 4. Akalanka: A significant Jain philosopher who
Literature
contributed to the logic and epistemology of
Jainism through his writings.
5. Hemachandra: A notable scholar and poet
who wrote on a variety of subjects, including
grammar and philosophy, and contributed to
Jain literature.
SANGAM LITERATURE
The Sangam Age holds substantial importance in the
ancient history of South India, spanning
approximately from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd
century CE. It is also recognized as the era of Tamil
Literature. The term "Sangam" denotes assemblies
or congregations of poets and scholars that
convened in ancient South India. These gatherings
were instrumental in nurturing a literary tradition
that focused on various aspects of life, including
love, war, ethics, politics, and nature.
The works composed by different poets during the
Sangam age provide insights into the social,
cultural, and political dynamics of the time. The
Sangam age left a significant cultural legacy,
influencing the region's history and heritage.
There were 3 great epics:
Silappathigaram, Dipavamsa, and
Mahavamsa. These epics demonstrate
that Cheran Senguttuvan of the Chera
dynasty and Gajabhagu II of Sri Lanka
were contemporaries.
It provides insights into the social,
political, and economic life of the
period. It also throws light on the Here are some of the most
important works of Sangam
religious and philosophical beliefs of the
people. literature
(A)Tolkappiyam
(B) Ettuttogai
(C) Pathinenkilkanakku
(D)
Pattuppattu
Classification of Sangam Literature
There are three sangams, known as Muchchangam. The Sangam literature
can be classified based on composition, Context, and Interpretation.
Based on the Period of Composition:

(A) Patinenmelkanakku (B) Patinenkilkanakku
Based on the Context and Interpretation

(A) Aham (Inner) (B) Puram (Outer)
Based on the Landscape or Location

(A) kurinji (mountainous regions) (B) mullai (pastoral forests),
(C) marutam (riverine agricultural land) (D) neytal (coastal regions),
(E) palai (arid regions)
.
Significance
Sangam literature depicts the
administrative system of its time,
centered around the King and
hereditary monarchy as prevalent
governance. It offers insights into the
historical and cultural aspects of that
era. While Sangam literature's claims
about monarchs should be
approached with caution due to
potential exaggerations, it provides
rich information about society and
culture. The Cheras, Cholas, and
Pandyas were the prominent
dynasties during the Sangam Period,
and literary references are vital for
understanding this period
CONCLUSION
.

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BUDDHIST LITERATURE

Buddhist literature originated with the teachings

Based on the Period of Composition:

Based on the Context and Interpretation

Based on the Landscape or Location

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